Indonesia Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits. Exercise increased caution in Indonesia due to  terrorism and natural disasters.  Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not travel to: The provinces of Central Papua (Papua Tengah) and Highland Papua (Papua Pegunungan) due to civil unrest. Country Summary: Terrorists continue plotting possible attacks in Indonesia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting police stations, places of worship,...

✈️ Planning a Trip?

Despite advisories, many travelers visit Indonesia safely every year. Check our guides for practical tips:

🚨 Emergency Numbers

🏥 Healthcare Summary

Access: easy Hours: Pharmacies (apotek) are common in Bali and major cities, typically open 9am-9pm. Some 24/7 pharmacies exist in larger cities. In smaller islands, pharmacy access is limited. Prescription rules: Many medications available OTC. For prescription medications, a local doctor's prescription may be required. International prescriptions are generally not accepted. Counterfeit medications are a real risk — use reputable pharmacies. 💡 Tips Many common medications are available without prescription, including antibiotics. However, quality can be inconsistent and counterfeit medications are a concern. Buy from reputable pharmacies (Kimia Farma, Guardian, or international clinics) when possible. Bring all prescription medications you may need.

Insurance: ⚠️ Strongly recommended Average cost: $25-50/week 💡 Tip Medical evacuation from Bali to Singapore (3-4 hours) or Australia is often necessary for serious conditions. Ensure your insurance covers emergency evacuation. International clinics in Bali (especially in Seminyak, Ubud, Sanur) have direct billing with major insurers. 💡 Tip Medical evacuation from Bali to Singapore (3-4 hours) or Australia is often necessary for serious conditions. Ensure your insurance covers emergency evacuation. International clinics in Bali (especially in Seminyak, Ubud, Sanur) have direct billing with major insurers.

💊 Medication Restrictions

Indonesia has extremely strict drug laws — penalties for drug offenses range from heavy fines to life imprisonment and the death penalty. Bring only essential medications in original packaging with a doctor's prescription in English and an official letter stating the medication is for personal use. For controlled substances (opioids, stimulants, psychotropics), obtain approval from the Indonesian FDA (BPOM) or carry documentation from your embassy. Some over-the-counter medications from other countries may be controlled in Indonesia.

• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) — RESTRICTED: Legal with prescription under Indonesian pharmaceutical law. However, Indonesia has extremely strict drug enforcement—carry full documentation including doctor's letter.
• Adderall / amphetamines — BANNED: Amphetamines are Category I narcotics under Law No. 35/2009. Possession carries mandatory prison sentences (4-12 years). Adderall is not available. Do NOT bring into Indonesia.
• Cannabis / CBD — BANNED: Strictly illegal. Cannabis is a Category I narcotic. Penalties range from 4 years to life imprisonment; trafficking can carry the death penalty. CBD products are also illegal.
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) — RESTRICTED: Available by prescription from Indonesian doctors but tightly controlled. Importing personal supplies requires prior approval from BPOM (national drug authority). Carry full documentation.
• Codeine / opioids — RESTRICTED: Codeine-containing medications require prescription. Stronger opioids are Category II narcotics with severe penalties for unauthorized possession.

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: Not obligatory but increasingly expected in tourist areas. 10% at restaurants if not included. Tip tour guides Rp 50,000-100,000/day. Round up taxis or tip Rp 5,000-10,000. Gig drivers (Gojek/Grab): tip in-app.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Using the left hand for giving/receiving anything, eating, or pointing
• Pointing with your index finger (use thumb instead)
• Touching someone's head (considered sacred)
• Entering a temple or home with shoes on
• Public displays of affection beyond hand-holding